Filmmaker Unites Pastors In Inspiring New Documentary
Nicholas Ma’s latest documentary, Leap of Faith, explores whether love can serve as a bridge in a world marked by deep ideological divides. Known for directing Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, a heartfelt portrayal of Fred Rogers, Ma’s newest work centers on the efforts of Rev. Michael Gulker and The Colossian Forum. Gulker’s group seeks to foster unity among Christian leaders with differing beliefs, aiming to help Christians lead “more like Jesus” even in conflict. The film opens with a shared sense of longing, with audiences often asking, “Where are today’s Fred Rogers?” Ma senses a yearning for Christian leadership that embodies Rogers’ spirit of kindness and patience across divides.
To answer this, Ma turned to Gulker’s retreats, where 12 pastors with varying theological and political perspectives gathered over a year to engage in challenging dialogues. Documenting their shared conversations and meals, Ma captures Gulker’s encouragement to embrace differences and work toward genuine fellowship. Reflecting on relationships, Ma suggests that like marriage, meaningful connections entail vulnerability and the risk of hurt, but also the potential for understanding. In this way, Leap of Faith challenges viewers to reconsider the command to “love thy neighbor” as a call to love not just chosen companions but those around us, despite the discomfort it may bring.
The film dives into complex topics like sexuality, unity, democracy, and love, areas where the pastors exposed their fears and deeper truths. Ma noted that a sense of vulnerability became “contagious,” leading the pastors to confront personal anxieties and differing perspectives. He emphasizes that Leap of Faith doesn’t attempt to resolve these issues but instead focuses on the pastors’ commitment to tackle difficult questions while respecting each other’s beliefs.
Ma explains that the heart of faith lies in transformation. He envisions Leap of Faith as a portrayal of spiritual growth where people do not abandon their values but allow the “spirit to work,” creating an environment for mutual transformation. He finds inspiration in one of Gulker’s concluding remarks: “You be who you are. I’ll be who I am, and we’re going to get through this together.” For Ma, this message encapsulates the leap of faith needed to hold onto individual beliefs while choosing to belong to one another.
Rather than providing clear answers, Leap of Faith invites viewers to experience the pastors’ journey in real-time, leaving room for personal interpretation. By presenting the authentic struggles and experiences of these pastors, Ma aims to illuminate possibilities for connection in a world divided, highlighting the potential for unity through faith, humility, and open dialogue.